The Journey - January 22, 2014

Proverbs 14:26 In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. ESV

The fear of the Lord is not a cowering terror or horror. It is the honor and respect of the heavenly Father demonstrated by doing what he says. A person’s lip service does not equal an awe of God. It’s one’s obedience, even when no one else is looking, that confirms healthy fear.

A public or private prodigal will never experience confidence. Keeping our distance from God does not allow us to feel his embrace. Running away from God always leads to the land of discouragement, but the person who is following hard after Jesus will find a supernatural peace in his presence.

Others will benefit as well. Little eyes are watching your actions. Little hearts are feeling your emotions. Little feet are following. Only when our refuge is in the Lord will they have a genuine example of confidence.

Father, thank you for the promise of a life without fear; a life of strong confidence. Help us stay on your prescribed path for our sake and for the sake of our children. In Jesus’ name. Amen.